January 9, 2026

A Special from Dr. Smiterman, NSO Medical Advisor

Dear Family and Friends:



Please take precautions. This year is the worst Flu infection in the past 25 years. The United States is currently experiencing elevated and increasing seasonal influenza activity, with reports of hospitalizations and pediatric deaths indicating significant impact, primarily driven by Influenza A (H3N2) viruses. Most important, get vaccinated (Flu & COVID vaccine)‼️ if you haven't already. Use prescription antiviral drugs early for treatment if you get sick. Wear facemasks as you feel appropriate, and use hand sanitizer. Careful in large groups of people (avoid shaking hands, hugs, etc..). Did I mention, most important, GET VACCINATED‼️🙏🏽 Stay safe everyone.

Dr. Smiterman,

NSO Medical Advsior

Mission Moment: NSO partners with the Shumake Family Foundation holiday harvest to provide Free groceries for 1,000 people 

NSO was proud to partner with the Shumake Family Foundation and community partners to host Detroit’s annual Holiday Harvest at Bert’s Marketplace. The harvest provided free groceries and essential food items to over 1,000 Detroit families during the holiday season.

Since 2012, Holiday Harvest has helped ease financial strain for thousands of households while offering dignity, care, and connection. We are grateful to our sponsors, volunteers, and partners whose generosity made this event possible and helped ensure families had what they needed this holiday season.

We also want to thank all those who volunteered on behalf of NSO. Together, we are feeding families and strengthening our community, one harvest at a time.

NSO is deeply grateful to Ms. Candice for her generous donation of hygiene kits, coats, boots, hats, and scarves in support of our clients.

We are deeply grateful to Lauren Ayles for her generous donation of three bags of women’s clothing to support NSO clients. Her contribution provides more than just essential items, it offers comfort, dignity, and a reminder to our clients that their community cares.

NSO partnered with the Wayne State University College of Education to host a fun and engaging Bingo afternoon for residents at Clay Apartments. Held in the Clay Activities Area, the event brought residents together for laughter, connection, and friendly competition, while also meeting an important seasonal need.

In addition to enjoying bingo games and prizes, residents received winter essential bags to help them stay warm during the colder months. The event reflects NSO’s commitment to providing care that supports both well-being and community connection.

NSO partnered with LifeChurch Riverside Detroit to host a Trader Joe’s Food Giveaway for residents at Clay Apartments, providing access to free groceries and essential food items during the holiday season. Held in the Clay Community Room, the giveaway offered neighbors a welcoming space to pick up nutritious items and pantry staples at a time when support is especially needed.

This partnership reflects NSO’s commitment to meeting basic needs while strengthening community connections. We are grateful to LifeChurch Riverside Detroit and Trader Joe’s for their generosity and collaboration in helping ensure residents had food on the table and one less worry during the holidays.

The podcast welcomes Christina Hines – attorney, advocate, and candidate for U.S. Congress. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on leadership, accountability, and giving a voice to The Silent Majority.

Learn more at donttouchme.wiki.

Approximately 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men in the U.S. experience domestic violence in their lifetime. More than 15 million children live in homes where partner violence has occurred at least once.

If you’re in danger or need support, call 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788.

Children deserve safety. Let’s ensure they get it.

The holidays may be over, but the needs haven’t gone away.

The Elf Program is still open, and your gift card donation continues to make a real difference for residents and mothers at the DHHC shelter.

These cards help families purchase groceries, personal care items, warm meals, and daily essentials—providing choice, dignity, and stability when it matters most.

How the Holiday Elf Campaign Works:

We are collecting gift cards in $25 denominations from ALDI, CVS, Dollar Tree, Family Dollar, Little Caesars, and Meijer.

• Mail a physical gift card from one of the identified retailers to 882 Oakman Blvd. Detroit, MI 48238 Attn: NSO Corporate Affairs.
• You can make a monetary donation specifically earmarked for this campaign, and we will purchase the gift cards on your behalf.

Your generosity will allow recipients to choose the items that they need most, ensuring that they receive a gift that truly brightens their holidays. Your involvement in the Holiday Elf Campaign can make a significant impact on the individuals we serve.

We kindly ask that all gift cards and donations be received by December 18 to ensure they reach the recipients in time for the holiday season. Thank you for being a vital part of our mission and for making this season brighter for others. We are profoundly grateful for your continued support.

NSO is proud to share this important community conversation hosted by the Joe Louis Greenway Partnership .

January 15 at Second Ebenezer Church for Shared Ground – Advancing Dr. King’s Vision Through Public Spaces. Together, we’ll explore how access to shared, welcoming spaces brings people together and strengthens the neighborhoods connected by the Joe Louis Greenway.

As we honor Dr. King’s legacy, we also look ahead to a future rooted in connection, equity, and opportunity for all.

REGISTER at: eventcreate.com/e/mlkdayjlgp

Second Ebenezer Church

6:00–7:30 PM

This is a reminder that help is available 24/7 to find shelter.

If you or someone you know is in need, call the Detroit Housing Resource HelpLine at 866-313-2520. Those in need can visit any Detroit Police Precinct for assistance finding shelter.

A recent poll finds that older Michigan drivers (65+) feel very confident behind the wheel, even more than peers in other states, and many continue to drive regularly. But less than half have a plan for the day they might need to give up the keys, even though changes in health and mobility can make driving harder over time.

What this means for YOU or someone you love:

Confidence is great — independence matters

Planning ahead is even better — for safety & peace of mind

Explore resources like Safe Drivers Smart Options to help start the conversation and plan for future mobility. https://www.michigan.gov/agingdriver/

New year, same vision! Women who are pregnant and caregivers of babies up to one year old can receive free, reliable rides through our Rides to Care service. Rides are available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit detroitmi.gov/RidesToCare or call 313-876-0000 to learn more.

Are you ready to attain your GED?Open registration for GED classes are now available through Wayne County Community College District!

To register, you’ll need a photo ID and to complete an assessment. Please plan for the registration process to take approximately two hours.

Where: Curtis L. Ivery Downtown Campus

1001 W. Fort St., Detroit, MI 48226 — Room 242

When: Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.

Registration is open through January 20, 2026.

An introduction to tennis starts here.

Tiny Tennis offers youth ages 5–8 a fun, active way to learn the basics alongside Wayne State student-athletes.

Thursdays from January 22 - February 12 | 6–7pm.

Register today: https://registration.teamsnap.com/form/47465

Suicide is the 12th leading cause of death in the U.S., and it can be prevented. If you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide,

please call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. You can also reach Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.